Tularemia

Tularemia, also known as Rabbit Fever, is cause by the
bacteriaFrancisella tularensis. This bacteria is found in
wild rodents and rabbits. It is spread through tick bites, direct
contact with infected living or dead animals, or by drinking water
that has been contaminated with the bacteria. In California, the
American Dog Tick and the Pacific Coast Tick can transmit tularemia.

Tularemia has been reported in many areas of the country. In
California, it is most frequently seen in the northern areas of the
the state. It is very rare in San Diego.